Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LH Family Law
School	Birmingham Law School
Department	Law
Module Code	09 35131
Module Lead	Charlotte Bendall
Level	Honours Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-30 hours Seminar-6 hours Guided independent study-164 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	The aim of this module is to provide the student with a sound understanding of the existing legal provisions dealing with family relationships. It also introduces the student to some of the legal, moral, social and political debates which inform the substantive content of this area of the law. The module places particular emphasis on the challenges raised by the changing nature of family life in contemporary society and examines whether the law has responded adequately to these changes. The existing law and current reform proposals are considered in detail, with particular reference to the arguments raised by commentators who believe the law works unfairly against certain groups in society including women, cohabitants and same-sex couples. Topics covered include: the concept of 'family', the diverse range of intimate relationships which could be categorised as 'familial' and the aims, functions and limitations of the law in this area; marriage and nullity; same-sex partnerships; cohabitation; protection afforded to the victims of domestic violence and harassment; the law and procedure relating to divorce; the redistribution of family income and assets upon separation or divorce; and children matters.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: apply detailed knowledge and understanding of the law relating to family relationships including relevant reform proposals; engage in legal analysis of complex factual problems by applying the existing law to given situations; critically analyse and evaluate the existing law in light of the legal, social, political and moral questions raised, including the ability to come to a personal and reasoned judgment on the areas covered; engage in informed academic debate concerning proposed reforms to the existing law; bring together and present coherently materials from primary and secondary sources; apply advanced research and writing skills, including the ability to work independently and to take responsibility for their own learning.
Assessment	35131-01 : Essay : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessments: One 3,500 words essay (100%) Reassessment: Resit failed component(s)
Other
Reading List